If you know anything about the Oaxaca region, is probably that it boasts incredible cuisine. Eating your way through the city is honestly one of the best things to do in Oaxaca. When I was in Oaxaca, I felt like it was all I was doing!!
But how about learning how to make those delicacies, so you never go without them?!
We’ve scoured the city to bring you the best cooking classes in Oaxaca for you to try. These classes will introduce you to the history and culture of Oaxacan cuisine, along with its delectable flavors. Following the instructions of a professional chef, you’ll learn to make moles, tortillas, and even chocolate!
➥ Why can you trust me? I have a decade of experience in the travel industry, and have a knack for identifying extraordinary tours. You can expect my tour guides to be packed with high-quality excursions that offer professional guidance, safety measures, and authentic experiences, and are highly rated by previous travelers.
I spent six months traveling around Mexico, and absolutely loved my time in Oaxaca, which means I’m familiar with the area, the local cuisine, and the activities offered in town.
I usually use Viator to book tours around the world. I especially recommend it for its great cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
On a time crunch? These are the best cooking classes:
| THE BEST CLASS | Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez |
| VEGETARIAN CLASS | Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class |
| PRIVATE CLASS | Tortilla Class in my Zapotec Village |
| CHOCOLATE MAKING CLASS | Make Your Own Chocolate Private Class |
OUR PICK: The BEST Cooking Class in Oaxaca
Step into the world of Oaxacan cuisine with this Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez. This seasoned cook has over 40 years of experience in pre-Hispanic and traditional cooking.
You’ll spend a day at Minerva’s house, where you’ll dive deep into local culture and lifestyle. But first, head to a bustling local market to shop for fresh, organic ingredients for your class. In the kitchen, don an apron and learn to prepare traditional food.
You can learn how to make tortillas from scratch on a clay griddle, mole, flavorful sauces, tamales in banana leaves, and seasonal Oaxacan sweets. Vegan and vegetarian options are available.
At the end of the class, enjoy your delicious hand-made lunch with fruit drinks and mezcal. Take the recipes with you so you have a taste of Oaxaca at home. The small group setting ensures an intimate, family-like atmosphere.
➤ Why is this the best cooking class? This amazing experience is led by a local, introducing you to the authentic traditions and customs of Oaxacan people. You’ll learn historical techniques and recipes, gaining insights into the cultural aspects of local cuisine. Plus, the set menu is delicious, and you’ll be learning to create the most established dishes and appetizers, as well as make new friends in the process.
Read what the reviews say:
“This tour exceeded our expectations. Minerva is a sweet teacher, versatile cook, and an excellent communicator. The tour started on time, followed the schedule and we had plenty of time to enjoy our food. Minerva’s team/family helped offering drinks, providing extra explanations and taking care of all our needs. The result was an amazing experience with delicious food. We all felt as part of Minerva’s family!’’
Jessica_O – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A market tour, a cooking class, all ingredients, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Great Options in Oaxaca
▶️ Get ready for a culinary adventure on this Nixtamal Cooking Class & Tour To The San Agustin Center of Arts. Your day starts with a visit to the Center of Arts, where you’ll discover the old hand made paper factory.
Then, join an experienced chef to delve into the heritage of Oaxacan culinary wonders. You’ll learn about the significance of Nixtamal, a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, then roll up your sleeves to start cooking.
You’ll cook the corn, visit a Molino, and craft fresh tortillas, memelas, empanadas, tlayudas, and quesadillas. Prepare an array of delicious salsas as well, and indulge in your creations with mezcal.
The flexible menu can accommodate vegans, vegetarians, and other dietary restrictions upon prior request. You will receive personalized instruction throughout the class, and enjoy a mouthwatering feast at the end.
This tour includes: A visit to the Center of Arts, a cooking class, all ingredients, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Experience Oaxacan culinary heritage firsthand with The Real Traditional Oaxaca Cooking Class. This private lesson is led by a local chef, and it takes you on a journey through ancient cooking methods.
You’ll learn to create dishes such as tortillas, empanadas, tetelas, and mole on a traditional wood stove. There’s not a set menu – you choose what to cook! This immersive, hands-on class equips you with the skills to recreate the dishes at home.
This tour includes: A cooking class, all ingredients, a meal, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Vegetarian Cooking Class in Oaxaca
Discover the flavors of the region with this Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class. On this tour, you’ll have the chance to meet organic producers as you shop for the freshest ingredients around a local neighborhood.
Then, get ready for a hands-on culinary adventure as you learn to craft delicious, vegetarian traditional dishes. Whip up a delicious meal from scratch including salad, a main dish, and dessert.
Cap off the experience by sitting down to indulge in your homemade lunch with drinks.
This tour includes: A cooking class, all ingredients, lunch, and drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Cooking Classes in Oaxaca
▶️ Step into the vibrant world of Oaxacan cuisine with a Traditional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma’s Recipes. It’s a half-day, private class guided by a local in her outdoor kitchen.
Dusting off her grandma’s Oaxacan recipes, your guide will lead you through the cooking class using a traditional brick stove. You’ll prepare appetizers such as guacamole, chileajo, salsas, and traditional drinks.
Make chiles rellenos for lunch, and then sit down with your host to relish your creations. A fresh fruit plate will be served for dessert, and you can request a vegetarian or dairy-free menu.
This tour includes: Private transportation, a cooking class, all ingredients, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Embark on a private Tortilla Class in my Zapotec Village for an authentic experience. You’ll dive into Zapotec culture at a local village, where your friendly guide will set you up in their home for the class.
Start the day with a delightful breakfast of bread and chocolate, and then have fun with a hands-on tortilla-making lesson. You’ll get to enjoy a hearty lunch before heading back to Oaxaca. Enjoy round-trip transfers, delicious meals, and an immersive private activity.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a visit to a Zapotec village, a cooking class, breakfast, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HER
A Chocolate Making Class in Oaxaca
Ever wondered how to make authentic Oaxacan chocolate? Make Your Own Chocolate with Oaxacan Tradition Private Class makes sure you learn!
Discover all the secrets behind roasting cocoa beans, peeling them by hand, and creating unique chocolate blends.
You’ll be only using local ingredients, and enjoy a hands-on workshop about one of the most beloved products of all time. The activity is suitable for children, and also for vegans/vegetarians.
This tour includes: Chocolate-making class, and chocolate tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
